Spies in the Hanoi Hilton
Filmmaker David Taylor will share extracts from his documentary “Spies in the Hanoi Hilton,” which reveals how American POWs secretly communicated with the CIA and Naval Intelligence using a system of coding that dated back to Marshall's work in World War II. This clandestine capability resulted in a daring rescue mission that remained classified for the next 45 years. The conversation will also touch on the heroism of U.S. Navy vice admiral and aviator James Bond Stockdale, the most senior naval officer to be held captive in Hanoi (seven years). In 1992, Admiral Stockdale was Ross Perot's vice-presidential running mate.
Taylor will be joined by Captain Eugene “Red” McDaniel, a retired U.S. Navy officer who spent six years as a prisoner of war (POW) at the notorious "Hanoi Hilton" during the Vietnam War. McDaniel, who endured barbaric torture and extreme deprivation during his captivity, became a source of hope and strength for his fellow prisoners and a powerful advocate for veterans and the humane treatment of POWs following his release in 1973.
SPEAKER BIO
Hailing from Nottinghamshire, England, David Taylor came to the United States in the 1970s as a high school student. He became the BBC Washington producer in 1981 and in 1992 began his career as a documentary producer. He has researched, written and produced well over 25 documentary films and received a Peabody and Emmy awards for his coverage of U.S. and military history. During his career, he has had the opportunity to get to spend time with a host of remarkable historic figures, and he takes great delight in sharing the stories surrounding the creation of the films.
REGISTRATION
Registration is capped at 200 attendees. Only registered participants will be admitted to this event.
Stay tuned for one more presentation in January 2025 on the battle of Fallujah, Iraq, with special guest Lieutenant General Natonski, who commanded U.S. forces during the operation. Date to come.
VENUE & PARKING
Douglass Community Center is located at 407 E. Market Street Leesburg, 20176. It is an ADA compliant building.
Ample free parking is available around the main building and in the back by the playground.